When are ladder handling accidents most likely to occur?

Ladder handling accidents are most likely to occur on the way down for several reasons. When workers descend a ladder, the focus may shift from maintaining stability to stepping down safely. At this moment, fatigue can set in, overconfidence can lead to carelessness, or individuals might not be fully aware of their surroundings and the hazards around them, increasing the risk of slipping or losing balance.

Additionally, descending requires a level of coordination and awareness, which can become compromised, resulting in accidents. Descending involves both lowering one’s body weight and maintaining grip and balance, making it essential to concentrate on foot placements and that there is no obstructions or slip hazards at the bottom. The focus on the bottom step may cause a person to overlook the proper safety measures required during this critical phase of using a ladder. Understanding this risk can help emphasize the importance of taking caution not only when climbing but particularly when coming down to prevent injuries.